Coal miners in Illinois and the rest of the US have a long tradition of writing poetry and music related to their occupation and this program brings that tradition to the forefront. Down in the Mine combines music performance (guitar and vocal) and commentary. The presentation features songs by coal miners, including Illinois miners. The commentary places this important folk tradition in historical context and offers details on coal mining, mining accidents, labor struggles, coal-miner bards and songwriters, early country music, and individual songs.
Registration is required for this program, as space is limited.
This is an Illinois Humanities - Road Scholars program. Illinois Humanities is supported in part by the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) and the Illinois General Assembly [through the Illinois Arts Council Agency (IACA)], as well as by contributions from individuals, foundations and corporations.
Any views, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed by speakers, program participants, or audiences do not necessarily reflect those of the NEH, Illinois Humanities, IACA, our partnering organizations, or our funders.